I would like to inform Members of the House that, as part of a rolling programme of appointments, I have decided to appoint two new board members to the South West of England Regional Development Agency. The new appointees will take up their positions on 14 December 2004 and their names are set out below.

The new board members will replace members whose terms of office end in December this year, and they will bring experiences from business and local authorities.

I have also agreed to extend the appointment of Nigel Costley by one year, so that his appointment is due to end on 13 December 2005.

Decisions on the appointments have been made following open competition in accordance with the guidelines set down in the Commissioner for Public Appointments code of practice, and following consultation with key national and regional players.

SWRDA (New Members)

Christine Channon

Alan Courts

SWRDA (one-year extension to appointment)

Nigel Costley